Leon's Full Service

Old-gas-station-turned-gastro-pub, Leon’s Full Service is a great place to eat, drink, and hang out with friends. The food and the atmosphere are unlike anything else in Atlanta; the beer selection is fantastic, as are the original cocktails.

One great thing about Leon’s is it satisfies all budgets. Their sandwiches—think beef brisket or smoked mozzarella—are no more than $10 and come with a choice of side. If you’re willing to shell out a little more, try an entrée, like grilled duck and pan-seared scallops—all under $20. The menu is very seasonal, so it changes constantly (yet another reason to keep coming back). 

One of my personal favorites on the menu is the pub frites—a bucket of perfectly crispy and seasoned fries that comes with a choice of two sauces, like garlic aioli and goat cheese fondue. I also love the warm chickpea and cherry salad as a side. It sounds like a weird combination, but it is to die for. It has melted provolone cheese in it, and let’s be honest—melted cheese makes everything better.

The atmosphere is very laid-back. The building still has a vintage service station feel to it, with exposed brick walls and big windows. The red booths almost take you back to the 1950s pin-up era (but the hipster vibe quickly brings you back to present day). There’s a great outdoor patio with a bocce ball court (to burn off that bucket of fries). 

THE VERDICT: I love everything about this place. Bonus: You’re walking distance to Brick Store Pub and Twain’s, if you’d like to continue drinking after dinner.